?<strong>Chapter 803:</strong>


    Edward imitated Darren’s gesture, jokingly adding, “Let’s all give it our best. Looks like second and third ces are up for grabs for you.”


    Elyse gave Edward a sharp look. “I’m setting my sights on first.”


    It was clear that they weren’t the only ones aiming for the top spot. Geraldine, approaching with her violin in hand, exuded confidence as she looked at Elyse and dered, “Sorry, but first ce will be mine.”


    Elyse fixed her gaze on Geraldine, remembering how she had narrowly beaten her by a slim marginst time, which stirred a sense of unease in her.


    What if Geraldine were to surpass her this time?


    Elyse instantly felt her nerves tense up. She scanned her surroundings, keenly aware that everyone present was a rival.


    The atmosphere backstage was thick with tension. All ten contestants were on stage, each disying a stern face. None appeared at ease.


    The host surveyed the room and dered, “The final piece will be the ‘Violin Concerto in A Minor.’ We are eager to witness each contestant’s rendition.”


    Upon hearing the name of the selected piece, Elyse’s spirits immediately fell. Known for itsplexity, performing this piece solo demanded extraordinary skill and unwavering focus.


    Edward caught the shift in Elyse’s demeanor and yfully remarked, “Look at your face. Is this piece your Achilles’ heel?”


    “No, it just makes things more interesting,” Elyse responded withposed assurance.


    The selected piece elicited varied reactions. Some contestants were content, while others, like Fiona, were disheartened. This was a piece Fiona did not master well.


    Standing on stage, she felt incredibly uneasy, as though she were walking on eggshells. Despite this, she was resolute in her determination to reach the Grand Final, to validate her worth to those who doubted her, and to release her pent-up frustrations.


    The contestants performed one by one on stage. Fiona went backstage, where she discreetly took out her phone and sent a message asking for advice.


    The reply came quickly, assuring her, “Concentrate on your performance. I’ll handle everything else.”


    This response made Fiona feel significantly relieved. She then approached Elyse, a smug look evident on her face. “With this piece, it wouldn’t be surprising if you didn’t make it.”


    Elyse was puzzled by Fiona’s confident demeanor and replied, “It’s still uncertain whether I’ll lose. However, by your expression, you seem to think you’ve already secured a win. Is this piece your forte?”


    Elyse’s direct question caught Fiona off guard. Knowing this piece was not her strength and that she could potentially make numerous errors during her performance only added to her unease.


    Swallowing nervously, Fiona tried to mask her uncertainty by raising her voice. “Whether I’m skilled at it or not, why should that matter to you?”


    Elyse was taken aback by Fiona’s loud reaction but chose not to engage further, fearing it might disturb her focus before performing.


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